What is EOS?
As a fully decentralized technology and ecosystem, EOS is not owned by any single entity. Anybody can have a hand in shaping the future of the protocol in a number of ways. Holders of EOS tokens elect the node operators that run the network. These infrastructure providers, known as Block Producers (BPs) also play a key leadership role, voting on funding and technical proposals put forward by community members and other entities responsible for guiding the evolution of the network.
Many Meanings for EOS
EOS can be a bit confusing when you get started because the word “EOS” can mean many different things, from the technology itself, to the community building the technology. Even the token powering the network is called EOS. But don’t worry, the more time you spend around the ecosystem, the easier it becomes to interpret these different definitions. Below are some key areas of EOS to familiarize yourself with.
EOS Native
This is the base layer of EOS that the entire ecosystem runs on top of. If you're new to Web3, this is the best place to start. It offers the most robust suite of features and performance capabilities.
EOS EVM
EOS EVM is an emulation of the Ethereum blockchain, built on EOS Native. It allows developers to run Ethereum apps on EOS. If you've used wallets like MetaMask then EOS EVM will be the most familiar.
EOS Token
The underlying token powering the network. It allows developers to access network resources, empowers the community to vote for validators, serves as a medium of exchange for applications and more.
EOS Network Stewards
The EOS Network delegates key functions necessary for the growth and maintaince of the ecosystem to several notable entities. These were put in place through a series of community proposals and are funded through reserves of EOS tokens, empowering them with the resources necessary to carry out their mission.
Core Development, Strategic Coordination, and Ecosystem Communications
EOS Network Foundation
The EOS Network Foundation (ENF) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to coordinating support to enhance the growth and development of the EOS Network. Focused on protocol development, strategic coordination, and ecosystem communications, the ENF invests in public goods and vital protocol developments to advance the network’s infrastructure.
The ENF also engages in co-marketing efforts with ecosystem partners to bolster the network’s visibility and attract engagement and investment. Through stewarding its many initiatives in coordination with other network entities, community leaders, and stakeholders, the ENF plays a vital role in steering the EOS Network towards a decentralized and robust future, well-equipped to adapt to new challenges.
Incubation and Acceleration for Emerging Projects
EOS Labs
EOS Labs serves as a nurturing ground for new ideas, offering technical expertise and resources to help fledgling companies mature into sustainable businesses. Emerging as a pivotal incubator that nurtures early-stage projects within the EOS ecosystem, EOS Labs is designed to prepare these projects for subsequent larger-scale investments, particularly from EOS Network Ventures (ENV).
The mission of EOS Labs spans research, incubation, business development, and cross-project collaboration, aiming to boost the EOS ecosystem’s competitiveness and decentralize funding. By fostering synergy with both the EOS Network Foundation (ENF) and ENV, EOS Labs enhances its capacity to streamline project development and funding across the network.
Investment and Fund Management for Ecosystem Growth
EOS Network Ventures
EOS Network Ventures (ENV) was launched as a strategic initiative within the EOS ecosystem, targeting for-profit investments to bolster the network’s sustainability and growth. ENV works to accelerate the development of promising yet mature startups building on EOS by making targeted investments and facilitating strategic partnerships.
ENV supports projects with robust business plans and significant potential for impact, bolstering the network’s financial foundation and sustainability. It enhances the EOS ecosystem through investments that align with the network’s strategic objectives and aims to drive substantial value back to the EOS Network.
EOS Block Producers
The EOS Block Producers are a critical piece of the EOS ecosystem. Elected by EOS token holders, these entities are tasked with running the infrastructure that the network operates on. They also serve a critical function as leaders, signing off on protocol upgrades, funding distributions and other important evolutionary milestones.